Former Prime Minister Jim Bolger DistFInstD remembered as a ‘towering figure’

Former Prime Minister Jim Bolger DistFInstD died on 15 October, aged 90, following a period of illness.

In a statement, his family said they had greatly appreciated the support and companionship of many friends, near and far.

Bolger led the National Party for 11 years and served as Prime Minister from 1990 to 1997. Tributes have been shared across the political spectrum, with Prime Minister Rt Hon Christopher Luxon and Opposition Leader Chris Hipkins both describing him as a “towering figure” and acknowledging his longstanding commitment to Aotearoa New Zealand.

He was known as a leader who left school at 15 without formal qualifications before rising to the country’s highest political office.

Following his political career, Bolger contributed significantly to governance in Aotearoa. He chaired several major organisations, including Kiwibank, KiwiRail, New Zealand Post, the NZ/US Council and the advisory board of the World Agricultural Forum. He also served as Chancellor of the University of Waikato for 12 years.

He joined the Institute of Directors in 2004 and was made a Distinguished Fellow in 2010 in recognition of his service to governance and society. Among other honours, he received New Zealand’s highest civic award, the Order of New Zealand. He declined a knighthood, remaining consistent with his personal stance on honorary titles.

New Zealand’s major media organisations are carrying tributes and reflections on his life and achievements. You can read more at the New Zealand Herald, Stuff and RNZ.